Why Temperature Extremes Can Be a Real Killer on Your Battery

We here at Lithia Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram FIAT of Eugene are always looking for new ways to share knowledge and educate our customers on their vehicles. Helping them make an informed decision is our main goal, and this is especially true when it comes to extreme temperatures and car batteries.

Extreme Cold

Extreme cold temperatures can affect the battery in three ways: capacity reduction, extra draw from the starter, and extra draw from accessories. The amperage needed to start the motor will be much higher in the colder winter months. Also, consider that motor oil gets thicker in the winter, making the engine harder to turn over, hence more strain on the battery.

Extreme Heat

While not quite as bad as cold, extreme heat can cause a battery to lose its life as well. This is because a battery needs electrolytes to function, and when they get heated up, they evaporate.

Questions or concerns?

If you have any questions or concerns about your new vehicle's battery, give our service department a call at the Lithia Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram FIAT of Eugene!